Advice for people travelling to Turkey after attempted military coup

News Reporter

A military coup launched in Turkey overnight has failed, it has been reported.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the coup attempt as an “act of treason” and insisted his government remains in charge.

According to reports a faction of the armed forces is accused of trying to seize power, after a night of gunfire and explosions in Ankara and Istanbul.

Officials say the coup attempt is over, although the situation is still confused.

At least 90 people are dead and more than 1,000 wounded.

Some 1,563 soldiers have been arrested.

The British Government has issued advice to those with plans to travel to Turkey over the coming days.

A spokesman said: “We strongly advise you to stay indoors, avoid public places, in particular demonstrations, and remain vigilant. Avoid areas of conflict and take sensible precautions if you are in the vicinity of any military or security forces. Roadblocks are in place in some areas. There are reports that social media websites are blocked.

“If you are at an airport in Turkey, please follow the advice of the authorities and contact your airline or tour operator.

If you are due to travel to or from Turkey over the next few days, you should closely monitor our travel advice and check with your airline or tour operator before travelling.

British nationals requiring urgent consular assistance in Turkey can contact the Foreign Office on 0207 0080000.

British Airways has announced it has cancelled all flights to Turkey today.

The airline easyJet said it should be able to continue operating its services to Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman and Izmir.

A spokesman said: “EasyJet is monitoring current developments in Turkey. The safety and security of our passengers and crew is the airline’s highest priority and accordingly we are liaising with the UK Government and will follow their advice. Current advice from the British authorities is to continue our flying programme. This will be kept under continuous review.”

A spokesman for ABTA, which represents the travel industry, said: “Until the exact details of the situation become clearer, ABTA recommends that members of the public read and follow the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) advice and any advice or instructions issued by their travel provider or airline.”

If you are in the UK and concerned about a British national in Ankara, call 020 7008 1500.

If you’re in Ankara and you urgently need help (eg if you’ve been attacked, arrested or lost your passport), call +90 312 455 3344.

Trending

Two vehicle Belper smash

Belper chef agency boss: hospitality kitchens crisis at boiling point

VIDEO: 'Horrific' robbery of a 12-year-old girl in Derbyshire

Derbyshire man charged with robbery after 12-year-old girl attacked in the street